The USEA Young Event Horse Series (YEH) is best described as an eventing talent search. The goal is to identify young horses that possesses the talent and disposition that, with proper training, can excel in the uppermost levels of eventing. While the ultimate aim is to identify the future four-star horses, many fine event horses who will excel at the lower levels will also be showcased.

The Series gives owners and breeders the opportunity to showcase the potential of their four- and five-year-old horses while encouraging the breeding and development of top-level event horses for the future. Classes focus on education and preparation of the event horse in a correct and progressive manner.

Youngsters are asked to complete three sections:

Conformation/TypeDressageJumping Test/Gallop/General Impression

Requirements

Age: Horses are considered to be one year older on January 1 each year regardless of birth month.

4-year-old classes are for horses attaining four years of age in the current calendar year.5-year-old classes are for horses attaining five years of age in the current calendar year.Mares that have had term or near-term foals will be allowed a “bye” year if a certificate of verification, signed by a veterinarian, is submitted to the USEA office. The intent of this rule is to allow mares who have taken time off to be bred to compete in four year old classes as five year olds and five-year-old classes as six-year-olds.

Membership: Membership in the USEA is required.

Horse Registration: In order to maintain complete records on Young Event Horses in our database, the USEA requires that all horses be registered to participate in YEH classes, and they must be registered at least at the Limited Registration Level. Registration will insure that the horses' full pedigree and competition results will be maintained. Please provide a completed Horse Life Registration form to the USEA. If you have breed registry papers on your horse, send a photocopy along with the USEA HLR form. Thank you for your cooperation!

Saddlery: Only snaffle bridles may be used in dressage and boots and martingales are optional for jumping. No boots to be worn in Sections I or II.

Foreign Horses: Foreign horses must attend and achieve a qualifying score at a sanctioned YEH competition in the United States in order to participate in the championships.

Championships: Qualified horses will be allowed to participate in one championship only. Horses must earn a score of 70 percent or higher at two qualifiers or a score of 75 percent or higher at one qualifier to qualify for the championships.

2015 Young Event Horse Championships

Dates and locations for Championships will be announced later in the year.

Contact

If you are interested in hosting a USEA Young Event Horse Series competition or have questions about the program, please contact Kate Lokey, (703) 779-9897.